OpenClaw Implements Strict Security Vetting for Skills After Public Hacks

Breaking: Security Turnaround at OpenClaw

After a week of public exploits comes the turnaround: OpenClaw is implementing strict security vetting for all future AI skills. The initiative emerged from collaboration between OpenClaw founder Peter Steinberger (@steipete), VirusTotal founder Bernardo Quintero (@bquintero), and an independent security researcher.

The Hacks

A week ago, OpenClaw was publicly hacked — not once, but three separate times. The attacker, who outed himself as the first public hacker of the platform, demonstrated critical vulnerabilities in the skill system.

What happened:

• Three successful attacks on OpenClaw instances
• Public documentation of vulnerabilities
• Proof that malicious skills can cause widespread damage

The Response

Instead of conflict came collaboration. The security researcher is now working side by side with Steinberger and Quintero on a fundamental security architecture.

New measures:

• Strict vetting of all future skills
• Security expert review
• VirusTotal technology partnership
• "Lead by example" approach for the entire AI agent industry

Why This Matters

OpenClaw skills are powerful. They can:

• Execute terminal commands
• Access file systems
• Communicate with external APIs
• Perform privileged operations

The problem: Previously anyone could publish skills. A malicious skill disguised as harmless tooling could execute harmful code, exfiltrate data, or compromise systems.

The solution: The new vetting process ensures only verified, secure skills enter the ecosystem.

The VirusTotal Connection

Bernardo Quintero's involvement brings years of malware analysis and threat intelligence experience to OpenClaw.

What this means:

• Automated malware scans for skills
• Reputation checking of skill authors
• Continuous monitoring of published skills
• Rapid response to newly discovered threats

Impact for Users

For existing users:

• Review of currently installed skills recommended
• Future skills marked as "verified"
• Transparency about security checks

For skill developers:

• Longer review processes before publication
• Security proofs required
• Code audits become standard

For the community:

• Overall higher security
• Trust in the skill ecosystem
• Model role for other AI agent platforms

Statement from Stakeholders

"After the hacks it was clear: We needed to act proactively. Together with leading security experts we're building a vetting system that protects OpenClaw users without stifling innovation."

— Peter Steinberger, OpenClaw founder

Timeline

Conclusion

The OpenClaw community shows how security crises can be mastered: Instead of defensive posture, open collaboration with hackers and security experts. The new vetting system could become the gold standard for AI agent platforms.

Important: Users should remain cautious. Even verified skills should only be installed from trusted sources.

Update to follow once official statements are available.